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Australians host ANZAC day of remembrance

  • Published
  • By Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Kim Harris
  • Life Support Area Media Transition Team
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  America celebrates a day of remembrance for those who have died in the pursuit of freedom, Memorial Day, but this concept is not unique to the United States. 

Australians and New Zealanders observed Australia New Zealand Army Corps Day April 25th. 

ANZAC Day gives recognition for the sacrifices made by Australian, New Zealand and Turkish soldiers who fought and died during the Gallipoli campaign in 1915 during WWI. It is the most important national occasion for Australian servicemembers stationed on foreign shores. 

The sunrise memorial at the Army's Life Support Area was attended by over 420 people, including a large contingent of serving Australian Defense Force personnel and members of the Australian and New Zealand community in the local area. 

Catherine Milder is a primary school teacher and a native Australian. She said she attended the ceremony out a sense of a common cause. 

"It is a really important day for us, to remember all the soldiers," Ms. Milder said. "Back home there are many events held on this day. It is important to teach the children about this." 

David Bevan has attended the ANZAC celebrations in this country for three years. He said he supports the ANZAC day commemorations because he has prior service in the military.
 
"My father and grandfather served in both wars," he said. "My grandfather was killed in World War I and my father was in World War II." 

Australian Sergeant Craig Goody, a member of Force Support Unit-One Middle East Area of Operations, participated in the ceremony and said it didn't matter when an Australian served. They were all brothers. 

"I want to show my respect for the fallen of all wars," he said. 

Eyelem Tandogan, Charge d'Affiares of the Turkish embassy, left the crowd with a quote from Turkish Memorial to the Australian Fallen. 

"This event has altered the flow of the history of our country," he said. "It established a new independent country, after having lost their lives on this land they have become our sons as well."